If you are a South African student hoping to study engineering or science, this is one opportunity you cannot afford to ignore. Sasol’s Mainstream Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year is now open, and it could change the direction of your future completely.
Applications open on 01 April 2026 and close on 17 May 2026. That gives you a limited window to get everything ready. Do not wait until the last week.
What Is the Sasol Mainstream Bursary?
Sasol is one of South Africa’s largest energy and chemicals companies. Every year, they invest in talented students by offering bursaries that cover more than just tuition fees.
This is a full bursary programme aimed at students who want to build careers in engineering and science. It is not just financial support. Sasol also offers mentorship and the chance to join their Graduate Development Programme after you finish your studies.
Studies must take place at a recognised South African university. Distance learning institutions like UNISA are not accepted.
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation and study-related expenses
- Structured mentorship and career support
- Possible placement in Sasol’s Graduate Development Programme
Please note: This bursary comes with a workback obligation. That means after you graduate, you will be expected to work for Sasol for a period of time. This is standard for many funded bursaries in South Africa.
Who Can Apply?
Many students feel unsure about whether they qualify. Here is a simple breakdown of who is eligible.
Basic Requirements
- You must be a South African citizen
- You must be under 30 years of age
- You must plan to study full-time at a recognised university
- You must have strong academic results
- You must have studied Mathematics — not Mathematical Literacy
- Only degree programmes qualify — diplomas are not accepted
Which Fields of Study Are Covered?
Undergraduate Degrees (BEng / BSc)
You can apply if you are studying or planning to study any of the following:
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemistry (up to Honours level)
- Geology (up to Honours level)
- Data Science — including Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, and Operations Research
Undergraduate Degree (BEng Tech)
- Mine Surveying — available at Universities of Technology only
Postgraduate Studies (MSc / MEng / PhD)
Sasol also supports postgraduate students in the following areas:
- Chemical Engineering — including Fluid Dynamics, Thermodynamics, and Process Modelling
- Chemistry — including Catalysis, Polymer Science, Environmental Science, and Analytical Chemistry
- Cyber Security
- Data Science — including Applied Mathematics and Statistics
What Documents Do You Need?
Many applicants struggle because they leave document preparation too late. Start gathering these now.
- Your latest academic results — Grade 11 or your most recent results
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Any additional supporting documents requested on the application portal
Make sure all documents are clear, correct, and certified where required. Incomplete applications will be disqualified without exception.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Visit the official Sasol bursary portal at www.sasolbursaries.com
- Create your profile and fill in the online application form carefully
- Upload all required documents before submitting
- Review your application to make sure everything is correct
- Submit your application before 17 May 2026
Important rules to remember:
- You may only submit one application
- Applications by email will not be accepted
- Late applications will not be considered
- Bursaries are awarded based on academic merit and Sasol’s business needs
Tips to Improve Your Chances
This bursary is highly competitive. Thousands of students apply each year. Being eligible does not guarantee selection. Here is what you can do to strengthen your application.
- Apply as early as possible. Do not wait until the closing date. Applying early shows commitment and gives you time to fix any mistakes.
- Check your academic results. Your grades matter. If you have strong results in Mathematics and Science, make sure they are clearly reflected in your documents.
- Be honest and accurate. Do not exaggerate or leave out important information. Incorrect applications will be disqualified.
- Prepare your documents in advance. Getting a certified ID copy takes time. Start now so you are not rushing at the last minute.
- Read all instructions carefully. Many applications fail simply because the applicant did not follow the steps correctly.
Take the Next Step Today
The Sasol Mainstream Bursary Programme is a real and meaningful opportunity for South African students who are serious about engineering and science careers. It offers financial support, mentorship, and a possible path into one of South Africa’s most established companies.
No one can guarantee you will be selected. But you can control how well you prepare. Take the time to get your documents ready, understand the requirements, and submit a complete and accurate application before the deadline.
Applications open on 01 April 2026 and close on 17 May 2026. Mark those dates now and be ready.
